By Jared Lett.
In life, we may be tempted to place our trust in many things other than God: our spouse, a job, money, friends, our country, or our own strength and ability. Our culture champions self-determination, self-will, self-esteem, self-actualization, self-(fill-in-the-blank). As Christians, we should be on guard against any idea which leads us down the path of trusting ourselves rather than trusting God.
Do you ever find yourself disappointed by others or disappointed in your own ability to control your situation in life? When we place our trust in anything other than God, we are bound for disappointment and frustration. On the other hand, when we trust in God we are bound for these wonderful promises made in scripture…
- Those who trust in God are promised salvation and strength. “See, God has come to save me. I will trust in him and not be afraid. The Lord God is my strength and my song; he has given me victory” – Isaiah 12: 2.
- Those who trust in God are promised Christ in their heart. “Christ will make his home in your hearts as you trust in him. Your roots will grow down into God’s love and keep you strong” – Ephesians 3: 17.
- Those who trust in God are promised His guidance. “Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths” – Proverbs 3:5-6.
- Those who trust in God are promised a thriving, fruitful life. “Look what happens to mighty warriors who do not trust in God. They trust their wealth instead and grow more and more bold in their wickedness. But I am like an olive tree, thriving in the house of God. I will always trust in God’s unfailing love” – Psalm 52: 7-9.
- Those who trust in God are promised hope, joy, and peace. “I pray that God, the source of hope, will fill you completely with joy and peace because you trust in him. Then you will overflow with confident hope through the power of the Holy Spirit” – Romans 15:13.
Each day, we have a new opportunity to trust God rather than leaning on our own understanding. If you find yourself slipping back into the trap of putting your trust in anything or anyone other than God, simply pray and ask God for forgiveness and move forward in renewed faith.
If, in general, you find trusting God to be a difficult task, read these scriptures and others that contain amazing promises. Pray and ask God to help you trust him more each day. God is faithful to answer the prayers of those who seek him.
Jared works as a Physical Therapist Assistant at Mercy and has attended Grace Hills since June 2015. He is married to Lacey Lett and they have two young children, Adele and Owen.